The biggest city in Israel, Tel Aviv is blessed with a stunning location along the Mediterranean Sea and a wealth of cultural attractions. Known as the ‘White City’, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site is a great contrast of past and present, with its daytime traditional markets and its night-time pulsating discos.
This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site is the gem of Israel with its rich historical attractions and cultural insight. It is the largest city in the country and a modern destination with old world charms. The beaches are popular and covered with tourists sunning themselves in the day and dancing at night.
The city’s many museums, the most famous of all being the Diaspora Museum, are the highlights of Tel Aviv. For relaxation, take to the chic cafés on Sheinkin and Dizengoff streets. Shopping is also a good pastime, especially at the vibrant Carmel Market with its oriental flair and exotic souvenirs. Night-time is a blast here with the choice of bars and nightclubs impressive to say the least.
Highlights
Diaspora Museum (Bet Hatfutzot): founded by Dr Nahum Goldmann, first president and creator of the World Jewish Congress, this museum is like no other in the world. The exhibits chronicle the 2,500-year history of the Jewish Diaspora through multimedia. A main attraction is the model of a 13th century Jewish community with tiny figures dressed in costumes and engaged in various occupations.
Eretz Israel Museum Complex: the museums here house a variety of artifacts from Tel Qasile. Most interesting here is the archaeological site, where you can view a rebuilt typical house from the pre-Israelite Canaanite period.
Safari Park: covers 250 acres and is home to free-range African animals like elephants, giraffes and hippos. Vehicles take you around the five miles of trails or you can walk along a safe footpath.
Tel Aviv Museum of Art: is a good place to see works of Israeli and international artists from the 16th century to the present.